University of Iowa Health Care has finalized its $280 million acquisition of Mission Cancer + Blood, advancing plans to establish a statewide cancer care network. The system officially acquired Mission’s assets on Dec. 31, 2024, following the organizations’ earlier announcement of their intent to collaborate on improving access to cancer treatment across Iowa.
With the integration of Mission’s more than 20 community clinics, UI Health Care aims to enhance local oncology services, particularly in rural areas, while leveraging the resources of its National Cancer Institute-designated Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, a release stated.
“This is a turning point in the fight against cancer in Iowa,” said Dr. Denise Jamieson, UI vice president for medical affairs and the Tyrone D. Artz Dean of the Carver College of Medicine. “By adding Mission to UI Health Care’s growing system of care, we are better positioned to collaborate with health systems across the state and critical access hospitals in central Iowa to improve cancer care in Iowa. We intend to build on Mission’s strong, long-standing, and trusted partnerships to bring the highest quality cancer care closer to home for all Iowans.”
Iowa has one of the fastest-growing cancer rates in the nation, making improved access to oncology services a critical priority. The acquisition supports the development of a coordinated network focused on cancer detection, treatment, and research statewide.
“Addressing Iowa’s cancer rates requires better collaboration across the state and pooling of resources, which is why Mission and UI Health Care joined forces,” said Phil Stover, CEO of Mission Cancer + Blood. “Both organizations realized we could do more together: We can provide more patients with access to comprehensive services, shortened time between diagnosis and treatment for rare and difficult cancers, and expanded options for the latest therapies. This is the right thing to do for Iowans.”
According to the release, Mission patients will continue receiving care at current locations, with expanded access to clinical trials and additional resources provided by Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa’s sole NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center. These centers are nationally recognized for their scientific leadership and clinical research, and community-focused education and training initiatives.
